Velma Kenney

Velma Louise (Nickelson) Kenney passed away August 23, 2014, at age 86 in Lee’s Summit, MO. She was born December 27, 1927 in Freedom, OK, to Lillian Maud (Moreland) and Frank Henry Nickelson. She was raised on the family ranch, located on the Cimarron River, west of Freedom, OK, and attended Edith Rural School. She graduated from Freedom High School in 1945 and from Northwestern Oklahoma State College in 1948. Velma and husband Donald E. Kenney raised their three children, and enjoyed 49 years together before Don’s death in 1997. Velma loved being a teacher and was an exceptionally talented and dedicated educator. Teaching in Oklahoma, Texas and Arizona for nearly 40 years, she brought excitement and the joy of learning into the lives of her beloved elementary students. Upon her retirement in 1987, she and Don enjoyed traveling throughout the United States in their motor home. A devoted Christian, Velma was baptized while a child in Saints Chapel in rural Woods County, OK. She belonged to the Lee’s Summit Community of Christ Church. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, garage sales, puzzles and arts and crafts. In her senior years she created and donated hundreds of craft and sewing items to neighbors and those in need. Velma is survived by three brothers, Chester Nickelson, Valley Center, KS; Willis Nickelson, Omaha, NE; and Merle Nickelson, Guymon, OK. She is also survived by her children, John (Beverly) Kenney, San Antonio, TX, Gene (Margy) Kenney, Blue Springs, MO, and Janet (John) Bollow, Batavia, IL, as well as 7 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Cremation is planned with a memorial service to be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 11, 2014 at the Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E. 39th St., Independence, MO 64055. Inurnment will be in Alva, OK. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Outreach International 129 W. Lexington, Independence, MO 64050. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600)